The following is a summary of Minnesota’s rules for young boat and watercraft operators.
Boats and Pontoons:
- Operators less than 12 years of age:
- 25 hp and less: No restrictions. This means that any child under the age of 12 years old can operate a boat with 25 hp or less without supervision.
- 25 – 75 hp: Must have someone at least 21 years old within reach of the controls.
- Over 75 hp: No operation allowed even with someone 21 years old within reach of the controls.
- Operators 12 -17 years of age:
- 25 hp and less: No restrictions.
- More than 25 hp: Must have either a Watercraft Operator’s Permit or someone at least 21 years old within reach of the controls.
- To obtain a Watercraft Operator’s Permit:
- PLA/Prior Lake-Savage Community Ed: http://www.priorlakeassociation.org/boating-and-watercraft-safety-clinic-new/
- MN DNR: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/safety/boatwater/education.html
Personal Watercraft:
- Operators under 13 years old: May NOT operate a PWC, even with an adult on board.
- Operators 13 year old: Must have a Watercraft Operator’s Permit and be under visual supervision (from shore or on board) by someone at least 21 years old or have someone at least 21 year old on board..
- Operators 14 to 17 years old: Must have a Watercraft Operator’s Permit or someone at least 21 years old on board.
- To obtain a Watercraft Operator’s Permit:
- PLA/Prior Lake-Savage Community Ed: http://www.priorlakeassociation.org/boating-and-watercraft-safety-clinic-new/
- MN DNR: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/safety/boatwater/education.htmleducation.html
For more information from the City of Prior Lake, please visit: http://www.cityofpriorlake.com/WSUM.php
For the complete Minnesota Boating Regulation Guide: http://files.dnr.state.mn.us/rlp/regulations/boatwater/boatingguide.pdf
Please Enjoy Prior Lake Respectfully and Safely!